Top 6 Commercial Embroidery Machines – Professional Results for Your Home Business

Last updated: Apr 12, 2020

35Models Considered

68Hours of Research

3Experts Interviewed

192Reviews Analyzed

Buying the best commercial embroidery machine can easily take your business to the next level. While some embroidery machines designed for casual, home use can do some of the things you would expect from a commercial machine, you can’t rely on them to handle big project that need to be done in a specific period of time. With a high-quality commercial embroidery machine, you can complete your orders from customers in a fraction of the time, whether you want to sell embroidered clothing online or have your own embroidery shop.

Commercial embroidery machines are more powerful than home machines designed for enthusiasts and hobbyists, and there are numerous features you need to consider when shopping for one. Some of the important characteristics to look at include the embroidery speed, USB connectivity, embroidery size, number and type of needles and much more. To find the best commercial embroidery machine for a small business, consider the way you intend to use it as well as your budget.

Top 6 Embroidery Machines Review 2020

To make your search simpler, we spent days reviewing the best commercial embroidery machines on the market and reading hundreds of reviews from business owners and professionals who tested them. We selected the six best commercial embroidery machines out there and reviewed them comprehensively. You can find our in-depth reviews below, together with a comparison table and a buying guide at the end that will offer you all the information you need to make the right choice. Let’s have a look at the six best commercial embroidery machine for home businesses.

A suitable choice for small businesses that specialize in the personalization of various promotional materials, the CAMFive EMB HT1501 works for a wide variety of mediums, including towels, blankets, fabrics and unassembled pieces of clothing, it can be a perfect embroidery machine for hats. It is our editor’s choice because it blends all the features you could want in a commercial embroidery machine with ease of operation. This machine comes equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen LCD that makes it very easy to scroll through designs and adjust all the settings with just a couple of taps for perfect results every time. With an impressive 100 million stitches memory capacity, this embroidery machine can really take any business to the next level.

A feature that many reviewers found very useful is the design preview function, which allows you to perform a motion test of the embroidery before starting a new design. Not a stitch is made during this process, so you can verify that the design is going to be embroidered exactly in the location you want it to. This is a great option to have when you want to avoid ruining garments for tests.

The CAMFive EMB HT1501 comes with a standard USB port that allows you to import all kinds of designs you created on the computer for complete customization options. The instant punch function of this embroidery machine makes it ideal for businesses who want to embroider names, numbers, or letters, as all you have to do is type from the LCD panel to select your favorite fonts and sizes.

Deceptively compact for an embroidery machine that sports so many features, the MakeIT Products and Equipment Commercial Embroidery Machine is especially built for commercial production. It has 15 needles that run at amazing speeds of up to 1200 stitches per minute and comes complete with a wealth of features that make it ideal for just about any type of embroidery business.

Users mostly liked that the machine includes an auto-variable speed mode that makes it possible to optimize your production efficiency and quality.

The on-screen keyboard that comes with 10 fonts is something that sets this embroidery machine apart from others, because it allows you to produce customizable embroidery from scratch with just a couple of taps. Moreover, this embroidery machine has a laser-engraved hoop system, which is managed by a Smart Touch Panel. Because it is compact in size and has a small footprint, this embroidery machine is not only suitable for factory-like settings, but also for a business you run from home.

The hoop system of this embroidery machine is suitable for embroideries with a size of up to 510 x 360 mm. This means that you can embroider on large sheets and towels, which is made even easier thanks to the versatile support table that received a lot of praised from users. The 3D Puff function of the embroidery machine makes it easy to obtain professional results on caps, bags, hats and more.

This seven-needle embroidery machine is designed for home-based businesses, but users also mentioned that it works well in professional embroidery studios as well. One of the first features that you notice on the Janome MB-7 Embroidery Machine is the remote computer screen, which offers the users a visual image of the built-in designs and monogramming fonts. You also get a read-out of the thread colors, as well as the total number of stitches required for each thread color and the total time it takes to complete the design.

Most of the users who reviewed this embroidery machine noted that even though this machine is not a suitable choice for those who are only starting out in the world of embroidery – it takes a bit of practice to wind and insert the bobbins – it can still be learned by anyone. What most users liked is the fact that you can connect the Janome MB-7 Embroidery Machine to a laptop or computer via the USB cable provided, so you can see all the embroidery design and other data on the remote computer screen.

This embroidery machine is a suitable choice for multiple types of fabrics, including natural ones such as cotton or linen, denim, upholstery, knits, canvas, plastic and more. It comes with a selection of accessories such as a seam reaper, spool pads, USB cable, as well as a comprehensive manual with everything there is to know about operating the machine correctly.

The Janome MB-4S is a suitable choice for people who are only starting their home-based embroidery business, but also for more established business thanks to the versatility of designs and the existence of multiple useful features. With embroidery speeds of up to 800 stitches per minute and 50 built-in design, this machine also comes complete with 2 and 3-letter monogramming and 10 different fonts to allow you to unleash your creativity. Users mostly liked he automatic thread cuter and the 5.7-inch remote computer screen that makes it easy to see the design and make changes in real time.

The dedicated bobbin winding motor of this embroidery machine winds new bobbins even during use, something that is not often found in professional embroidery machines. The on-board storage includes 3 MB of storage memory, which is enough for 100 designs or 1.5 million stitches. Another thing users liked about the Janome MB-4S is the fact that it comes with an extra-large bobbin that is 1.4 times larger than regular ones you can find on similar machines.

The Janome MB-4S is compatible with all standard Janome hoops, which means that you can transfer the ones you may have from a Janome machine for home use. Users also loved that the machine can work with just about any of the formats used by industry professionals.

A well-built machine that has been around for many years, the Janome Horizon Memory Craft 12000 is favored by many users because it has the ability to hook up to a laptop or PC so you can see the tiniest details and make any necessary changes easily. The machine also sports the AcuFeed Flex feeding system, which prevents the bottom layer of the fabric from feeding at the same speed as the top ones, which comes in very handy when quilting.

This embroidery machine for small businesses also comes with a Stitch composer that allows you to create your own design, which means that you don’t have to rely on designs downloaded from the internet all the time. The needle plates of the Janome Horizon Memory Craft 12000 are incredibly easy to use according to numerous reviewers. The machine has numerous stitch patterns, with users loving how the zig-zag patters are variable and how you can change them with your knee. The functionality of the Janome Horizon Memory Craft 12000 makes it ideal for just about any type of business, and the machine comes with a wide selection of accessories, ranging from 43 presser feet to embroidery bobbin thread and pre-wound bobbins. While the cost may be a bit prohibitive for those who are only starting up, this machine is easy to use and has a very low learning curve.

Manufactured by Singer, one of the most known names in the industry, the Singer Futura XL-580 comes with no less than 250 designs and 20 fonts, to allow you to create unlimited designs. Moreover, this embroidery machine for small businesses has 215 built-in stitches that range from basic to decorative. The software that comes with the machine allows you to convert image files into embroideries and customize your embroideries thanks to the advanced editing functions.

The multi-hoop capability of this machine is what many reviewers liked about it. For example, you can embroider design layouts up to four times larger than the biggest hoop. Moreover, you can create various kinds of design layouts in the software and transfer them to various sections of the fabric. Users also raved about the endless hoop capability that can sew connecting embroideries, which comes in very handy for creating home décor and borders for fashion items. The built-in thread cutter of the Singer Futura XL-580 also received a lot of praise from users and professionals alike, as it allows you to trim the bobbin and top threads with just a touch of the button.

Another function that you may find useful with the Singer Futura XL-580 is the self-adjusting tension system that lets you choose your favorite stitch with a simple turn of a dial. The embroidery machine also saves you lots of time by adjusting your selected stitches automatically.

Pros

Large number of built-in designs and stitches

Software to create your own designs

Built-in tutorials

Cons

Steep learning curve

Mechanical sped control

Buying Guide

Whether you are looking to purchase a commercial embroidery machine for a start-up business or to improve the logistics of a business that is already up and running, it’s important to consider the type of wok you intend to do with them, as well as your understanding of the process before parting with your money. With a commercial embroidery machine, you can computerize and optimize your workflow for outstanding results, which is why it’s very important to make an informed choice. Below you will find everything you need to know before investing in a commercial embroidery machine for your business.

Benefits of a top-notch commercial embroidery machine

A commercial embroidery machine is just the right kind of machinery you need to get your business to the next level. While you can technically get good results with an embroidery machine for home use, a model that is specifically built for large volumes of work can help you achieve the desired results in less time and with enhanced accuracy. Because they are capable of reproducing designs perfectly, the best commercial embroidery machines on the market can follow every stitching detail flawlessly and require less babysitting than machines designed for home use.

Features to consider when choosing a commercial embroidery machine

The key features you need to look for when shopping for a commercial embroidery machine range from the amount of built-in memory to computer connectivity, and from the number of needles to the embroidery speed. Here is an outline of some of the most important features to look for in a commercial embroidery machine.

Type of machine and what you need it for

The main types of embroidery machines you can find on the market are those intended for home use and those designed for commercial purposes. Both of them may be embroidery machines only or they may be a combination of sewing and embroidery machines. When choosing the right type, consider whether you need a machine for large scale use, as home models may not be able to support embroidering dozens of designs per day or more, which may be essential for embroidery shops.

Number of designs and fonts built in

The number of designs and stitches you get with a commercial embroidery machine is essential for those who want to be able to create various designs that suit the preferences of as many customers as possible. You can expect to get an average of 50 built-in designs with commercial embroidery machines, but some models, such as the Singer Futura XL-580 come with more than 250 of them.

Embroidering speed

The embroidery speed of commercial embroidery machines is generally higher than that of machines designed for home use.

For best results, look for a model with at least 600 stitches per minute.

If you need even more speed for increasing your productivity, you can look at machines such as the Janome Horizon Memory Craft 12000, which can handle 1,000 stitches per minute.

Number of needles

Most of the commercial embroidery machines on the market come with several needles, ranging from universal point ones to metallic needles and topstitch needles. When choosing the right needle for your project, you need to consider both the needle point and determine whether it’s suitable for your type of fabric, and its size, which determines the tension of the top thread.

Embroidery field area

The size of the embroidery field area determines the size of the projects you can tackle with your commercial embroidery machine. From 4 x 4 to 10 x 6, there are lots of sizes available, with machines such as the Janome Horizon Memory Craft 12000 featuring very large fields of 9.1 x 11.8 inches.

Connectivity options

Some commercial embroidery machines can be connected directly to a PC or laptop so you can upload new designs instantly and edit existent ones as well. Other models come with USB ports so you can import designs on an USB stick.

Embroidery software compatibility and file format

Various manufacturers use different file formats, so you should make sure you check for compatibility when buying a new embroidery machine if you already have a portfolio of designs in a specific format.

Extras and accessories included

Most of the commercial embroidery machines we reviewed come with a wide range of accessories, ranging from extra hoops to suit different projects to multiple needles and thread attachments. Check whether the model you intend to buy comes with all the accessories you need to complete your particular projects.

Dimensions

Unlike machines designed for home use, commercial embroidery machines tend to be on the large side, which means that you need to consider whether you have enough room to fit the machine comfortably.

Weight

Because of their dimension, commercial embroidery machines tend to be quite heavy, which means that you need to consider whether you have a spot to support it well.

Warranty

Commercial embroidery machines generally come with extended warranties, which are longer than those you would expect from a machine intended for home use. For example, the Singer Futura XL-580 has a warranty of 25 years, which means you get a long-term investment for your business.

Price range

Most of the commercial embroidery machines we reviewed are quite expensive and their price may act as a deterrent for new businesses. However, you should also keep in mind that you’re investing in a quality product that is bound to increase your productivity and take your business to the next level.

Tips for using your embroidery machine for a home business

Some of the important things to keep in mind when choosing an embroidery machine for a home business are the correct software for your needs and making sure you keep the machine in good working condition by keeping it oiled. You should also make sure you invest in a high-quality machine and that you use high quality threads for all your projects for best results.

FAQ

Most manufacturers recommend lubricating the embroidery machine once a month if you use it weekly, and weekly if you use it every day. Consult the instructions provided by the manufacturer and make sure you only use a type of oil that is approved for your particular machine.

To obtain the best results, don’t attempt to save money by using poor quality thread, as in the end you may end up paying more to redo the designs. Some of the most popular choices of thread for commercial embroidery machines include cotton, polyester, rayon, and nylon, but that depends on the kind of fabric you want to create an embroidery on.

The various types of hoops you get with a commercial embroidery machine indicate the size of design you can actually embroider. The most common sizes of embroidery hoops are 4 x 4 and 5 x 7, but you can also find larger ones of 6 x 10 inches or even more. As a rule of thumb, you can use a larger hoop to stitch a particular design, but not a smaller one.

There are multiple reasons for which the thread might keep breaking as you stitch, and they range from a worn-out needle to hooping that is not tight enough. If your needle is an old one that you have been using extensively, especially on thick fabrics, consider replacing it. Moreover, try not to use threads that are old or damaged, and always make sure you keep them stored in a cool, dark place. Finally, check the tension because if that is too tight or loose, it may break the thread.

To create your own designs, you need a special software that usually comes with the embroidery machine. You can create the designs on your computer and import them into the machine via a USB port if your embroidery machine has one.

A commercial embroidery machine needs to be able to complete more stitches per day than models designed for home use. As such, a high speed machine helps you achieve more stitches per minute, which means it can create a larger number of designs per hour, which helps with productivity.

Our Verdict

Choosing the best commercial embroidery machine is no easy task, particularly because there are so many features to take into account. The type and quality of machine you choose will determine the quality and look of your embroideries, so it’s essential to choose wisely. Our editor’s choice, the CAMFive EMB HT1501 is the best all-around choice out there because it combines precision and speed with a solid design that is bound to serve your business well for years. If you’re looking for an embroidery machine with a smaller footprint, the MakeIT Products and Equipment Commercial Embroidery Machine could be the perfect option for your needs. Finally, those who are more interested in a wide range of accessories and a remote LCD touchscreen may find the Janome MB-7 Embroidery Machine a perfect choice. No matter which model you may end up choosing, remember to consider the type of work you intend to do with the machine before making a decision.

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